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An alternative approach to transport processes occurring in gases is presented for the benefit of school teachers. The usual expressions derived for the thermal conductivity and dynamic viscosity are obtained by considering the net energy flow or momentum flow across a plane located within the body of the gas. It is considered that this approach can lead to misconceptions about the underlying mechanisms, especially for viscous flow. This alternative approach avoids these misconceptions.

Describes a simple computing system which can solve the quantum mechanical problem of a particle trapped in a rectangular potential well. The system has been designed specifically for use in undergraduate laboratories as the basis for an interactive, experimental approach to the learning of quantum mechanics and can be built for as little as Pounds 10.

A list of stamps relating to physics issued between the 1977 and 1978 Gibbons Stamps of the World Catalogue

All-round holograms of small objects can be made easily with a minimum of apparatus, no special vibration isolation system and at small unit cost. The procedure described in this note has been found to be very successful and could be repeated by teachers with access to a small He-Ne gas laser. The results dramatically illustrate the full three-dimensional nature of the holographic image.

The simple problem of the motion of a free mass initially at rest and under the influence of a harmonic force is attended to. In particular the dependence of the subsequent motion on the phase of the force when it is turned on is dealt with. The purpose of this is to provide an example of differential equations in dynamics for students. The circuit of a simple analogue computer capable of solving this problem is provided.

The oscillator is constructed round an inexpensive double-triode valve and is suitable for the demonstration of transmission line propagation and the radiation of electromagnetic waves in the 160-170 MHz region. It is suitable for GCE A-level students, telecommunication technicians and BSc students. This apparatus is considered to be a good example of an LC oscillating circuit. The details necessary for construction are provided as is an explanation of how the oscillator can be used for Lecher line experiments. Radiation experiments possible with dipole receivers and transmitters are also described.

Scattered around the educational literature of the last few years have been various suggestions for the use of television equipment in physics demonstrations and teaching, usually with only a few cross-references. It appeared worthwhile, therefore, to assemble some of these references and to outline a few additional ideas which have proved useful. Some of these ideas will no doubt have also been developed independently elsewhere; they are simply reported here in the hope that amongst them the reader may find something which he has not yet tried.